The Guest Bathroom

With the holidays coming up, many of us are preparing to have guests in our homes, at least for an evening, but possibly for a few days. With that in mind, I thought I'd post some "do's" and "don'ts" of the guest bathroom when preparing to have people over.

Do make sure there is an ample supply of toilet paper within easy reach. There is nothing more uncomfortable than realizing the roll is empty, then having to search all over an unfamiliar bathroom for an extra. And please, please make sure there are multiple rolls available! Some of your guests may use it up faster than others and faster than you anticipate. Please don't make a poor party guest resort to rooting through her handbag for a half-crumpled kleenex!

Do make sure any potential odor problems are taken care of before they arise. If it's feasible, leave a lighted candle in there. A scented votive in a little glass holder will do just fine. Also, even if you don't use it yourself, leave a can of air freshener by the sink. There is absolutely nothing more mortifying than having to leave a bathroom smelly after you've used it, and most would rather die than ask their hostess if there's a can of air freshener they can use.

Do keep the comfort of your guests in mind. Make sure the soap dispenser is filled, the garbage can is empty and lined with a bag, the towels are freshly washed, and there's a little plug-in night light. Provide little necessities like tissues, a bottle of lotion, and Dixie Cups for drinks of water. You might consider leaving a small box of--uhh--"feminine necessities" out as well. Most women will come prepared, but a few might be caught by surprise. Another nice touch is to leave a small bowl of breath mints by the mirror, and remember, a small vase of flowers makes everything seem more beautiful--even a bathroom!

Don't forget to clear out and tidy the medicine cabinet and cupboards. People will open them to snoop! Don't leave rusted nail clippers, medication other than aspirin (or similar), or anything you wouldn't want placed on your coffee table in front of everyone. Nobody needs to know that you color your hair, that you suffer from allergies, or your husband has IBS. Clear it out.

Don't forget that some of your guests might have babies in diapers. It's probably a good idea to leave a supply of baggies in there for any horrific diapers. And please have mercy on your guests! They are probably already embarrassed to have to carry a yucky diaper out of the bathroom; try to discretely take it from them and whisper "let me just put this outside for you." Save them the trouble and embarrassment.

Don't forget that your guests are people too! Think back to parties you have attended or other houses you have visited. What did you appreciate having in the bathroom? What did you wish you had? Use your own experiences and create a little oasis of calm--one that you'd be pleased with--for your guests.